Extensive Oral and Maxillofacial Myiasis Caused by Calliphoridae Larvae in a Boxer Dog: A Case Report

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran

10.22075/jvlr.2026.37708.1166

Abstract

Myiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the invasion of fly larvae into the living tissues of animals. Although this condition is more commonly observed in soft tissues and open wounds, involvement of the oral cavity is exceedingly rare due to the region's defense mechanisms, including the presence of saliva, a relatively constant pH range of approximately 7.5, high vascularity, and the continuous movements of the tongue.
This study reports the case of a 5-year-old male Boxer dog exhibiting severe clinical manifestations in the oral cavity, including deep ulcers, ptyalism, hematemesis, and anorexia. Clinical examination revealed extensive infestation of the anterior regions of both the maxilla and mandible with fly larvae. Parasitological and morphometric examinations of the larvae confirmed that the specimens belonged to the family Calliphoridae.
In this case report, feeding on food waste contaminated with fly eggs or larvae, along with the pre-existing presence, existence, of periodontal diseases which create favorable, suitable, conditions for the establishment and growth of larvae, were identified as predisposing factors. This report emphasizes the necessity for thorough oral examinations in dogs with poor oral hygieneThough rare, oral myiasis must be considered in differential diagnoses for extensive necrotic lesions to prevent major tissue destruction.

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Journal of Veterinary Laboratory Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 23 February 2026

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